The Master’s Commendation (Awarded at the discretion of the Master for commendable achievement in any sector of aviation.) – The British Helicopter Team

The British Helicopter Team returned from the 2012 FAI World Helicopter Championships in Moscow, with the team Silver Medal. This was the best ever placing by a British Team at that level of competition.

Helicopter competition flying is a little known activity within the UK, however, World Helicopter Championship competitions, drawing competitors from as far afield as America and China, have been held since 1974. The current British team has collectively built on its prior achievements since competing under the captaincy of David Monks over the past 7 years. During this period the team has continuously strived to progress, improve and compete at a much higher level than had been achieved in previous years – the overall aim being to seriously challenge the established dominance of the Russians. Despite the significant costs involved (the team is largely self-funding) crews devoted considerable time and resource to enter overseas competitions in France, Germany, Italy and Switzerland – this being deemed as the minimum investment required in order to achieve the required skill level in order to be able to effectively compete at world class level. With the award of the Team Silver Medal, the Team is now seriously on the heels of the Russians.

About the Guild of Air Pilots and Air Navigators.
The Guild of Air Pilots and Air Navigators was established in 1929. It is based in London but has an internationally based membership of professional and private pilots.

The principal activities of the Guild are centred on developing action and activities to ensure that aircraft are piloted and navigated safely by aviators who are highly competent, self-reliant, dependable and respected.

The Guild supports the education and training of pilots and navigators from the initial training of the young pilot to the specialist training of the highest levels. Through its charitable activities, education and training, technical committee work, aircrew selection, scholarships and sponsorships, advice and recognition of the achievements of fellow aviators worldwide, the Guild keeps itself at the forefront of the aviation world.

See the complete press release

HeliHub.com understands the award will be formally presented at the Guild’s annual Trophies and Awards Banquet to be held in the Great Hall of London’s historic Guildhall on the 23rd October.  The Banquet will be attended by His Royal Highness Prince Andrew Duke of York, Grand Master of the Guild.